The well-known former manager of Coca Cola Fortune, Justice Mabuda (61) of Phiphidi, passed away in the Wilgers Hospital in Pretoria after a long illness.

A family member, Mr Takalani Mabuda, said the family was shocked and in great pain after losing one of their beloved members. "We are greatly saddened by his death, but we will accept it because God’s will has been done."

He added that Mr Mabuda had been a community leader who was always prepared to help the young ones as a loyal member of the community.

A former co-worker, Mr Geoffrey Tshibvumo, says Mabuda was a man of vision. "We will always remember him for his hard work, commitment and dedication," he said."Most of the development that occurred at the company was his ideas. He loved development. We have really lost a charismatic, disciplined and enthusiastic leader," Tshibvumo said.

Mr Mabunda is survived by his wife and three children. A memorial service will be held at his house at Phiphidi today (Friday) at 18:00. Mabuda will be buried on Saturday at 06:00.